Subject
American fiction -- 20th century -- History and criticism Books
Best books
Arthur Bartlett Maurice
The Mentor: Makers of American Fiction, Vol. 6, Num. 14, Serial No. 162, September 1, 1918
"The Mentor: Makers of Modern American Fiction, Vol. 6, Num. 14, Serial No. 162,…" by Arthur B. Maurice is a literary collection focusing on significant figures in American fiction from the late 19th to the early 20th century. The book serves as a detailed exploration of various authors who have contributed to shaping modern American literature, highlighting their unique styles, thematic concerns, and contributions to the field. The text provides insights into the lives and works of prominent writers, enhancing readers' understanding of their literary significance. In this edition of The Mentor, the author profiles notable figures such as Booth Tarkington, Robert W. Chambers, Richard Harding Davis, and Jack London, among others. Each section provides a brief biography, illustrating the authors' inspirations, breakthrough works, and literary legacies. The writing also discusses the prevalent themes and styles within the authors’ works, as well as the evolution of American fiction during this period. By capturing the essence of these writers' contributions, the book serves as both a tribute to their legacies and a reference for aspiring writers and literature enthusiasts interested in the foundations of modern American storytelling.
Carl Van Doren
Contemporary American Novelists (1900-1920)
"Contemporary American Novelists (1900-1920)" by Carl Van Doren is a critical examination of the development of the American novel during the early 20th century, written in the early 1920s. The book surveys notable writers and trends, focusing on how various novelists have responded to the prevailing literary movements, particularly naturalism. Van Doren discusses the evolution of character types and thematic concerns among these authors, reflecting on societal influences and the changing landscape of American literature. The beginning of this critical work sets the stage for an exploration of literary styles and movements that have shaped American fiction. Van Doren contrasts the remnants of "local color" writing with the emerging naturalism that has influenced authors such as Hamlin Garland and Upton Sinclair, among others. He introduces the notion that earlier literary conventions have become inadequate in the face of shifting social realities, leading writers to grapple more fiercely with the truths of human experience. Through discussions of prominent writers and their works, Van Doren aims to illuminate the complexities of American literary progress during a period marked by both innovation and continuity.
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